Physiotherapy hip impingement

BIn FAI impingement the hip joint does not function as it should because the neck of the femoral head touches the edge of the socket. Impingement can be translated freely as entrapment, this entrapment causes hip pain. There is a classification depending on where the problem is located. FAI stands for femoroacetabular impingement, femur is the head of the hip and the acetabulum is the socket of the hip. The extra bone growth with impingement can damage the labrum. In addition, the extra bone growth can cause accelerated wear of the hip joint, better known as osteoarthritis. Extra bone growth in places where it shouldn't be naturally causes the joint to run less smoothly. This can cause reduced mobility and limitations in daily life. The reduced motion may be accompanied by pain symptoms. For good guidance with an FAI impingement you are at Fysiofitaal Tilburg to the right place!

Cause of hip impingement

 

The hip is a ball and socket joint and consists of a head and a socket that fit closely together. For the hip joint to move properly, the hip head slides into the hip socket. In an FAI impingement, the hip joint does not move as it should because the neck of the hip head runs against the edge of the hip socket. FAI stands for Femoro Acetabular Impingement. This basically means that the femur and hip socket are not moving smoothly relative to each other. Depending on where the problem is located, there is a classification, namely CAM or Pincher.

 

hip impimgement

Cam Impingement

  • Anatomical Characteristics: Cam impingement is caused by an abnormality in the shape of the femur (thighbone). Specifically, there is a flattening or bulge on the head-neck transition area of the femur.
  • Effect on the Joint: This deformity can cause, when the hip moves, the abnormal bone to contact the edge of the hip socket, which can cause damage to the labrum (the lip of the hip socket) and cartilage.
  • Most Affected Persons: Cam impingement is more common in young men, especially those who are active or participate in sports.

Pincer Impingement

  • Anatomical Characteristics: Pincer impingement is caused by an abnormality or over-covering of the hip socket (acetabulum). This may be because the hip socket is too deep or because the edge of the hip socket protrudes too far over the femur.
  • Effect on the Joint: In pincer impingement, the hip socket compresses the femur, leading to compression of the labrum and cartilage. Unlike cam impingement, where the damage occurs mainly on the side of the hip socket, in pincer impingement the damage is more localized to the front of the hip socket.
  • Most Affected Persons: Pincer impingement is more commonly seen in middle-aged women, especially those who are active or participate in sports.

Combined (Cam and Pincer) Impingement

  • It is also possible for a person to have both cam and pincer impingement, meaning there is a problem with both the shape of the femur and the hip socket. This is called mixed impingement and can make symptoms and treatment more complex.

Treatment for FAI, whether cam, pincer or a combination of both, can range from physical therapy and activity modifications to surgical intervention, depending on the severity of symptoms and the patient's specific needs. It is important that a qualified health care provider make an accurate diagnosis and create a treatment plan.

    What is the labrum? 

    The labrum is a cartilage ring located in the hip socket. The extra bone growth in impingement can damage the labrum. In addition, the extra bone growth can cause accelerated wear of the hip joint, better known as osteoarthritis. The labrum is an important part of the hip joint. It plays an important role in the stability of the joint. Below is more detailed information about the labrum:

    • Anatomical Position: The labrum is a ring of firm but flexible cartilage that surrounds the edge of the hip socket (acetabulum).
    • Structure: The labrum is fibrocartilaginous, which means it is a mixture of fibrous tissue and cartilage. It is firm but also elastic.

    Diagnosis of FAI hip

    Extra bone growth in places where it shouldn't be makes the joint's range of motion less good. This can cause reduced mobility and limitations in daily life. Decreased motion can be associated with pains.
    To diagnose FAI impingement, the physical therapist starts with an interview, also called anamnesis. From these questions, the physical therapist can extract a lot of information and arrive at a preliminary diagnosis. To confirm this diagnosis, the physical therapist will perform a number of tests. The Fai impingement is easily recognized by a physical therapist and the diagnosis is therefore also easy to make.

    Treatment of hip pain Physio Fitaal Tilburg

    Treatment of hip impingement consists of education, advice on the load and load capacity of the hip joint, exercise therapy and Physical Therapy on the treatment couch. Home exercises are also an important part of treatment. For the right treatment for hip pain, you have come to the right place.

    Are these complaints recognizable or suffer from other complaints in the hip? Then make an appointment now at one of our therapists.

     

    Making an appointment

    Ruben Luijkx

    Owner Physio Vital
    Physical therapist, MSC. Manuel therapy

    With a solid foundation in scientific knowledge, Ruben combines the latest insights with his practical experience to ensure the best results. As owner of Physio Fitaal, Ruben has created a patient-centered environment that works with innovative techniques and a data-driven approach. Whether you are an elite athlete looking to return to the field or someone recovering from knee surgery, Ruben will guide you to a full recovery, with attention to your individual needs and goals.